Tracks in the Snow
Yesterday, I was completely blown away by one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. It was beautiful in the musical sense, of course, but what really hit me were the lyrics, and the meaning behind them.
The song is titled “Tracks in the Snow,” by one of my all-time favorite bands – The Civil Wars.
The Civil Wars, for those of you who may not know, is a duet, featuring the talents of the lovely Joy Williams and the enigmatic John Paul White. Their music possesses something that I have never heard before – some innate beauty that I cannnot quite put my finger on – and this something captures my soul everytime I hear one of their songs. Their first album – Barton Hollow – debuted earlier this year, and it has been played on repeat many times since I purchased it. As good as it is, though, I have to say that their new Christmas single – “Tracks in the Snow” – is by far my favorite of their songs.
As I said before, listen to the lyrics. Close your eyes, and just listen to the rise and fall of the harmony, to the meaning behind the words.
They are telling us a story.
I won’t spoil it for you, but I’ll admit that it took me a few times before it dawned on me; when it did, though, I was left speechless.
I hope you all have a wonderful Monday, and an even better week!
Until next time!
~Timothy
I just love Mondays here!
December 7, 2011 at 2:26 pm
Haha! I’m glad you enjoy them! I’m rather fond of them myself; they make the day that much more bearable. ;P
December 7, 2011 at 2:35 pm
their voices are haunting, lyrics are beautiful. thank you for sharing this
December 8, 2011 at 12:48 pm
Of all my blogging peers, I knew you would appreciate this the most, Enreal.
Don’t you just love their song?
December 8, 2011 at 12:52 pm
Just discovering this song this year… would love to hear your interpretation… Incredible.
December 17, 2012 at 5:45 pm
My interpretation of the song is that the lyrics progress over time. The woman is singing to her soulmate, and each verse offers a different snapshot in time. At first the couple is young, playing together at some social event. The second verse is then a bit more intimate; they are older now, the wind is quiet, and they are alone. As the song states, “you are the reason I’m making these tracks in the snow.” And then the final verse is the one that really punches me in the gut. “Down where the river bends, nobody’s waiting, but there’s still a reason I’m making these tracks in the snow.” She clears a place in the snow, and leaves the present for her lover who passed away.
To me, this song is the ultimate confession of a love that endures a whole lifetime, and The Civil Wars sing it to perfection.
December 19, 2012 at 12:20 am